Printable Version

Outcomes Measurement Information

Post-Tests now available (all PDF):

• Instructions
• Leader post-survey
• Leader's copy of Brownie/Daisy survey (Brownie/Daisy leaders need both this and the Leader post-sruvey)
• Brownie/Daisy girl survey
• Junior girl survey
• Ages 11-17 girl survey

Surveys are also available for completion online:

• Troop Leader Survey
• Junior Survey
• Cadette & Senior Girl Scouts Survey

(also see Star Troop information page)

Why do we need to do outcomes measurement?

• To provide reasonably priced programs to our members, Girl Scouts, Patriots' Trail Council (GSPTC) seeks financial support from foundations, corporations, government sources, and individuals.
• Today, more and more, funders request detailed reports about how their dollars are being spent. Outcome surveys help us to report back on how we have helped effect changes in girls' attitudes, behaviors, skills, interests and aspirations.
• We also want to use this information internally to improve our programs for girls and share information with leaders on how they have contributed to girls’ personal growth during the year.

What does our outcomes measurement system involve?

• The Girl Scout Outcomes Study is designed to objectively measure how girls grow strong through Girl Scouting.
• Troops that participate in the study will be expected to complete both a pre-survey at the beginning of the year and a post-survey at the end of the year.  The surveys will be administered by the troop leaders and can take place during meeting time.  Troops will be provided all of the necessary materials to take the surveys. The surveys will take no more than 20 minutes for the girls to complete.
• The girls' answers to the survey questions will be held in strictest confidence.
• Please speak with Alice Dennis, our Outcomes Measurement Coordinator, or your membership specialist to find out more about incentives available for participation.

The survey asks girls to respond to questions such as:

• I feel that my ideas count in Girl Scouts (agree, disagree, etc.)
• I feel capable of learning to do things by myself (never, sometimes, usually, always, etc.)
• I would like to study further after high school (agree, disagree, etc.)

Background

GSPTC piloted the Girl Scout Outcomes Study in early 2007 after we received a grant from the Boston Foundation to develop an outcomes measurement system in Boston. GSPTC asked a selection of troops in Boston to take our pre-and post surveys. Our pilot program was successful and we learned that we needed to streamline the process to make it easier for leaders to complete. As a result of our success with the pilot outcomes measurement system, we received an additional grant of $30,000 from the Boston Foundation to improve and expand our outcomes measurement system to the entire council.

Remember, we are surveying girls because our funders - as well as parents or guardians, leaders, and other adults in Girl Scouting- want to understand the impact of our programs on our members.  The feedback is also critically important in planning programs, refining program delivery and securing additional funds from donors – corporations, foundations and government funders. Our success, yours and the councils, is based on the partnerships we create and working together.

Need More Information? Please call Alice Dennis at 617-482-1078 x246